Don’t follow other cars too closely because:
- You may not see the road between the cars.
- You may not have time to stop if the vehicle in front of you slows or stops suddenly. ✓
- You may not see the vehicle's turn signals.
- You may not see the other vehicle’s brake lights.
Answer: B. You may not have time to stop if the vehicle in front of you slows or stops suddenly.
You should not follow other cars too closely because you may not have time to stop if the vehicle in front of you slows or stops suddenly.
Why this is the answer
The Texas handbook tells you to stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead, and to watch the cars ahead so you are ready if one stops suddenly. It also says you should always be able to stop within the distance you can see ahead. Following too closely eats up that cushion, so when the vehicle in front slows or stops suddenly, you have less room and time to react and stop.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. You may not see the road between the cars. — Seeing the road between cars is not the reason the handbook gives; it ties following distance to being ready for a sudden stop.
- C. You may not see the vehicle's turn signals. — The passages do not list blocked turn signals as the reason; the concern is having enough following distance to stop.
- D. You may not see the other vehicle’s brake lights. — The passages do not say following too closely hides brake lights; they focus on keeping enough space and time to stop.
Remember it
Remember: two seconds behind, ready for a sudden stop.